Canada issues travel advisories for Mexico, Colombia and other hot countries

Cold wintry weather moved into Ontario this week, which may prompt people to think of a warm-weather vacation.

It was expected to feel as cold as -18 C with the wind chill on Thursday evening. While there are vacation deals available, travellers may want to check out the latest advisories before booking a trip.

Canada’s Travel Advice and Advisories website page helps travellers make informed decisions and travel safely outside the country.

They analyze trends and incidents affecting international travellers, monitor world events and collect updated reports from different sources.

Here are five countries with advisories:

Thailand

Risks: Flooding, political tensions and sporadic demonstrations.

Reasons: Political instability in Thailand has created a volatile and unpredictable security environment throughout the country, particularly in Bangkok. Legal provisions may allow the military to retain and exercise sweeping powers.

Large demonstrations occur regularly in Bangkok and across the country. They are often related to social and political tensions, and are expected to continue.

Heavy rainfall has caused severe flooding across the southern provinces of Thailand, including Songkhla, Pattani, Yala and Narathiwat. Recent monsoon rains have resulted in transportation disruptions and damage to infrastructure. Rising water levels have cut access to major roads, including those to the Hat Yai airport.

Local authorities have declared Hat Yai district a disaster zone.

Mexico

Risks: High levels of criminal activity and kidnapping.

Reasons: Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, is common in Mexico. Remain vigilant in airports, bus stations, buses and the Mexico City metro system.

Levels of crime, particularly violent crime, are high throughout Mexico.

If you’re a victim of a crime, you must report it immediately to local authorities. Criminal investigations require that a formal complaint be made in person. You should hire a local lawyer to represent your interests and follow up on your case after you return to Canada. Failure to do so may result in incomplete investigations or long delays in bringing cases to trial.

Costa Rica

Risks: Crime.

Reasons: Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs frequently. Tourists are common targets for theft because they are perceived as being wealthy.

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment or verbal abuse. Incidents of sexual assault against foreigners at beach resorts and by taxi drivers in San José have occurred.

There are reports of casualties due to the consumption of unregulated and adulterated alcohol containing high levels of methanol. The advisory suggests people buy alcohol from reputable establishments and seek medical assistance if they begin to feel sick.

Italy

Risks: Threat of terrorism, and increased security during the winter Olympics.

Reasons: There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities and further attacks elsewhere in Europe are likely. Attacks in Italy cannot be ruled out.

The Milan Cortina Olympic Winter Games will take place in northern Italy from Feb. 6-22, followed by the Paralympic Winter Games from March 6-15, 2026.

Roads and public transportation services may be impacted by winter weather or increased demand.

The advisory suggests travellers stay aware of their surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Thieves and pickpockets take advantage of large gatherings to target travellers. People may approach you on the street to sell tickets to events. You should only purchase event tickets through the official Milan Cortina 2026 website or reputable resale services.

For a complete list of advisories and additional information, see the federal website here.

Lead photo of San Andrés, San Andrés y Providencia, Colombia: Diego Agudelo